they are not often released until near the end of April.

The water supply is derived from Craig Brook and from three large and
several lesser springs. The source of the brook is Craig Pond, which
affords a constant supply of exceedingly transparent water, warm in
summer and cold in winter, moderated, however; in both extremes by the
water from the springs, which mingles with the brook in its lower
course, forming about a third of its volume. It is this mixed water
which is mainly used in the rearing of fish. Its temperature ranges
from 34° F. [1.1° C.] to 70°F. [21.1°C.]. The lowest monthly mean in
1893 was 35.8° F. [2.1° C.] in February. The highest was 64.6°F.
[18.1°C.] in August. The total volume is variable, ranging from 875
to 3,000 gallons and averaging about 1,200 gallons per minute.

The difference of level between the source and mouth of the brook is
about 190 feet. The sharpest descent is just above the hatchery and
rearing troughs, which therefore receive well-aerated water. The
conformation of the ground offers good facilities for the distribution
and utilization of the water.

The leading motive in the foundation of this station was the desire to
apply to the Atlantic salmon the system of rearing fish to the age of
at least several months before liberating them. This motive has
determined not only the principal subjects of the work, but also to a
considerable extent the fixtures and methods. The scheme of work was
determined in outline several years before the acquisition of full
title to the premises, and, circumstances rendering it desirable to
enter at once on its development, it became necessary to have recourse
to movable apparatus, pending authority for permanent improvements.